The New Orleans Saints have officially signed tight end Jimmy Graham to a franchise tag. The two sides were nowhere near agreeing to terms on a long-term contract and the Saints were very aware they could not afford to let Graham hit the free agent market and be up for grabs. Easily one of the best offensive producers for the team, Graham's value is high. So, the question is now whether or not it is high enough for a team to make a trade for him?
In order for any team to make a play on Graham, they must deliver an offer sheet favorable to the tight end. Then New Orleans must decide whether or not to match the offer. If they do not, a team must also give up two first-round draft picks in exchange for him, plus sign Graham to a long-term, big-money deal. That is a heavy price tag for one player, no matter how talented he may be.
ESPN's Adam Schefter suggests that either the Seattle Seahawks or the Green Bay Packers could be in play for Graham in the coming weeks. Giving up two first-round picks for a player is a very risky and expensive move, but it could also be a game changer for any offense.
If the Packers were to make a deal for Graham, they might have the best proposed offense in the league. With Aaron Rodgers at quarterback and Eddie Lacy in the back field, Graham would join the likes of Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb catching passes. As far as free agents go, Jermichael Finley and James Jones are set to depart leaving holes to fill. Graham could definitely step up in place of both players.
The only issue is that making a move for Graham is very out of character for general manager Ted Thompson. The Packers normally hold tight to their draft picks. The team has made defense a priority this year and giving up a first-round pick certainly hurts the effort.
The Seattle Seahawks making a run at Graham also seems unlikely. The team is prepared to lose Golden Tate while also releasing Sidney Rice, but the Seahawks have the very capable Zach Miller. However, Graham is of course an upgrade, but an expensive one. The Seahawks look more poised to getting a veteran wide receiver over giving up two first-round picks for Graham.
The New York Giants took the same approach last year with Victor Cruz. They placed the two first-round pick price tag on the wide receiver and in the end, no one made a move. The two sides agreed on a long-term contract and everyone moved on. It seems unlikely Graham and the Saints will agree on a new deal, but all signs point towards the tight end staying put.